VETERAN eye specialist Solomon Guramatunhu has called for collaboration for the growth of the music industry.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony at the Zimbabwe College of Music, Guramatunhu, who was the guest of honour, told graduates that successes in being relevant and effective are founded from a deep sense of accepting their African identity which has several strengths ahead of other races.
He said music was an invaluable asset in the preservation of our culture, the promotion of African pride and the elevation of the Zimbabwean value system. “It is through music that we keep our heritage alive, celebrate our collective identity and pass on our traditions to future generations,” Guramatunhu said.
He said the work being done at the Zimbabwe College of Music was essential in nurturing cultural continuity and impartation of pride in our identity.
“Let me take this opportunity to encourage synergies and collaboration between academic institutions, the corporate world, development agencies, musicians, and all stakeholders to work towards the growth of the music industry. Such partnerships are key in creating a vibrant, sustainable music ecosystem that benefits the community and the nation at large.
“Partnerships are key in promoting and harnessing the full potential of our musical talents and contributing to the socio-economic development of our nation,” said Guramatunhu, a creative participant in many disciplines such as dance and fitness training including arts collection.
Rachel Chigwanda, Zimbabwe College of Music director, hailed the 16 graduates for remaining steadfast in their education in the face of the prohibitive COVID-19-induced difficulties which saw their class reduced by over two-thirds from the original recruitment of 50.
Chigwanda said her institution was in the rebranding phase of the curriculum to move with global trends and government’s industry 5.0.
- Guramatunhu bemoans absence of radiotherapy machines
- Solomon Guramatunhu Day 1
- Guramatunhu on why Africans must stick to natural hair
- Collaborations key for growth of music industry: Guramatunhu
Keep Reading
“To this effect we are currently reviewing our curriculum to align with industry demands and global trends while preserving our unique cultural identity.
In this light, we are excited to introduce new diploma and degree programmes that will better equip our students for the future. We have also incorporated new modes of learning, including block and part-time courses, to accommodate busy music professionals who cannot commit to full-time study.
To address knowledge gaps among music professionals, we have also expanded our short courses to cover essential areas such as music business, music production, sound engineering, and music therapy. These initiatives have been significant milestones for the college over the past two years,” Chigwanda said.
Africa University deputy vice-chancellor Talon Garikayi expressed appreciation for stakeholders and partners who worked tirelessly in making the Zimbabwe College of Music an affiliate of Africa University Degree programmes run efficiently.
Garikayi said graduates should demonstrate their relevance through creating entrepreneurial and business opportunities within the African cultural contexts.
“In this world where science and technology are reigning supreme, Friedrich Nietzsche’s words resonate profoundly when he said, ‘Without music, life would be a mistake’. Music is more than just an art form; it is a powerful vehicle for business, cultural preservation and the celebration of our heritage. It serves as a key driver of Education 5.0, converting knowledge into tangible goods and services,” Garikayi said.
“No musician is ever without purpose, as they embody their art and are entrepreneurs of their trade, never waiting to apply for a job but continually composing songs even in their dreams. Through music, we preserve our cultural identity, celebrate our collective history and contribute to the economic and social development of our nation. Our graduates today are not only artistes but also cultural ambassadors and entrepreneurs, poised to make significant contributions to the creative economy and society at large.”
